Machine vision inspection systems utilize machines to perform various measurements and judgments, replacing human eyes. It is an important branch of computer science, integrating technologies from optics, mechanics, electronics, and computer hardware and software, involving multiple fields such as computer science, image processing, pattern recognition, artificial intelligence, signal processing, and opto-mechatronics. The rapid development of technologies such as image processing and pattern recognition has greatly promoted the application of machine vision in various industries.
Machine vision inspection systems, also known as industrial vision systems, work by imaging a product or area, processing the image information using specialized image processing software, and automatically determining the product's position, size, and appearance based on the processing results. The software then judges whether the product is qualified or not according to pre-set standards and outputs the judgment information to the executing mechanism.
Machine vision inspection systems use CCD industrial cameras to convert the targets to be inspected into image signals, which are then transmitted to a dedicated image processing system. Based on pixel distribution and information such as brightness and color, the signals are converted into digital signals. The image processing system performs various calculations on these signals to extract the features of the targets, such as area, quantity, position, and length. Based on preset tolerances and other conditions, the system outputs results, including size, angle, number, pass/fail, presence/absence, etc., to achieve automatic recognition.
Machine vision inspection systems mainly have three categories of functions:
First, there is the positioning function, which can automatically determine the location of objects or products of interest and output the location information through a certain communication protocol. This function is mostly used in fully automated assembly and production, such as automatic assembly, automatic welding, automatic packaging, automatic filling, and automatic spraying, and is often used in conjunction with automatic actuators (robotic arms, welding guns, nozzles, etc.).
The second function is measurement, which means it can automatically measure the external dimensions of a product, such as its outline, aperture, height, and area.
Thirdly, there is the defect detection function, which is the most frequently used function of the vision system. It can detect relevant information on the product surface, such as: whether the packaging is correct, whether the printing is wrong, whether there are scratches or particles on the surface, whether there is damage, whether there is oil stains or dust, whether there are perforations in plastic parts, and whether there is poor injection molding due to rain or fog.
Compared to manual or traditional mechanical methods, machine vision systems offer a range of advantages, including higher speed, precision, and accuracy. With the advancement of industrial modernization, machine vision inspection has been widely applied across various fields, providing businesses and users with superior product quality and perfect solutions.
